Mr B’s BBQ Shrimp is a classic New Orleans dish that combines bold flavors with simple ingredients. This recipe stands out for its rich garlic butter sauce infused with Cajun spices and a hint of lemon, creating a mouthwatering experience that’s both savory and tangy. It’s perfect for seafood lovers looking to bring a taste of the Big Easy into their own kitchen.
We love how quickly this dish comes together, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, Mr B’s BBQ Shrimp offers a delicious way to enjoy shrimp with a flavorful twist. Let’s dive into this iconic recipe and bring some Southern charm to your table.
Ingredients
To create an authentic Mr B’s BBQ Shrimp, we carefully select each ingredient to build the dish’s signature bold and savory profile. Here’s everything we’ll need to bring this New Orleans classic to life.
Shrimp
- 1 1/2 pounds large fresh shrimp (16-20 count), shell-on and deveined
- Opt for raw shrimp with shells intact to maximize flavor infusion during cooking.
Seasonings and Spices
We balance robust Cajun flavors with aromatic herbs and spices:
| Ingredient | Amount | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Garlic | 6 cloves, minced | Adds pungent depth and aroma |
| Paprika | 2 teaspoons | Offers smoky warmth |
| Cajun seasoning | 1 tablespoon | Brings bold heat and complexity |
| Black pepper | 1 teaspoon | Adds sharp spice |
| Cayenne pepper | 1/2 teaspoon | Delivers vibrant heat |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon | Enhances all flavors |
Sauce Ingredients
This rich garlic butter sauce defines the dish:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
- 1/4 cup dry white wine
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce (adjust to taste)
These sauce components blend to create a luscious, zesty coating that perfectly complements the shrimp’s natural sweetness.
Optional Garnishes
To finish with flair we suggest:
- Fresh chopped parsley for color and a touch of freshness
- Lemon wedges for added citrus brightness at the table
- Crusty French bread or toasted baguette slices to soak up the irresistible sauce
All these carefully chosen ingredients come together to honor the beloved flavors of Mr B’s BBQ Shrimp.
Equipment Needed
To master Mr B’s BBQ Shrimp Recipe, having the right equipment is crucial for achieving the rich flavors and perfect texture this New Orleans classic demands. Below is a list of essential tools that will help us cook efficiently and enhance our cooking experience.
Essential Cookware and Tools
- Large Skillet or Cast Iron Pan
A heavy-bottomed skillet or cast iron pan retains heat evenly, allowing the shrimp to cook through while developing a rich, buttery sauce with the perfect sear.
- Tongs
We rely on tongs to easily turn the shrimp without breaking the shells, preserving their structure and locking in flavor.
- Measuring Spoons and Cups
Accurate measurement of spices, butter, wine, and citrus juice ensures the authentic balance of flavors in the sauce.
- Chef’s Knife and Cutting Board
For chopping garlic, parsley, and lemon wedges, a sharp knife and sturdy cutting board make prep quick and safe.
- Small Saucepan (optional)
In case we prefer to warm the butter sauce separately or melt butter without burning it.
Additional Helpful Equipment
- Serving Dish or Platter
A wide shallow dish or platter lets us present the shrimp attractively and makes it easy to dip bread into the sauce.
- Citrus Juicer
For extracting fresh lemon juice efficiently ensuring no seeds fall into the sauce.
Equipment Summary Table
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Large Skillet or Cast Iron Pan | Even cooking and rich sauce development |
| Tongs | Gentle turning of shrimp |
| Measuring Spoons and Cups | Exact ingredient measurement |
| Chef’s Knife and Cutting Board | Efficient prep of fresh ingredients |
| Small Saucepan (optional) | Controlled butter melting |
| Serving Dish or Platter | Presenting and serving the finished dish |
| Citrus Juicer | Extracting fresh lemon juice |
Equipped with these tools, we guarantee that every step of making Mr B’s BBQ Shrimp is straightforward, resulting in a dish that boasts bold garlic butter flavor and the authentic Cajun spice punch.
Prep Work
To capture the authentic flavors of Mr B’s BBQ Shrimp, careful prep work is essential. Let’s get started by preparing the shrimp properly and crafting the signature rich sauce that defines this dish.
Cleaning and Deveining Shrimp
For this recipe, we use large fresh shrimp with shells on to maximize flavor and texture. Follow these steps for perfect shrimp prep:
- Rinse the shrimp under cold running water.
- Using a small sharp knife or shrimp deveiner, make a shallow cut along the back.
- Remove the dark vein carefully without breaking the shell.
- Rinse shrimp again to remove any debris.
- Pat dry thoroughly with paper towels to ensure the sauce adheres well.
| Step | Detail |
|---|---|
| Rinse shrimp | Cold water rinse to clean |
| Make shallow cut | Along the shrimp’s back |
| Remove vein | Dark digestive tract removal |
| Dry shrimp | Pat with paper towels for dryness |
Tip: Leaving the shells intact helps lock in moisture and infuses the shrimp with that classic bold garlic butter flavor.
Preparing the Sauce
The sauce is the heart of Mr B’s BBQ Shrimp and requires precise preparation for that legendary taste. Here’s how to prepare it:
- In a large skillet, melt unsalted butter over medium heat.
- Add olive oil to prevent butter from burning and enrich flavor.
- Stir in finely minced garlic until fragrant but not browned (about 1-2 minutes).
- Pour in dry white wine and let it reduce slightly to concentrate flavors.
- Add lemon juice freshly squeezed for brightness.
- Season with a blend of Cajun seasoning, paprika, black pepper, cayenne pepper, and salt.
- Incorporate Worcestershire sauce and hot sauce sparingly for depth and heat.
- Allow the sauce to simmer gently, blending all the elements into a rich, aromatic base.
| Ingredient | Measurement | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Unsalted butter | 6 tablespoons | Richness and smooth base |
| Olive oil | 2 tablespoons | Prevents burning and adds flavor |
| Garlic | 4 cloves, minced | Essential bold garlic flavor |
| Dry white wine | ½ cup | Adds acidity and complexity |
| Lemon juice | 2 tablespoons | Brightens and balances flavors |
| Cajun seasoning | 1 tablespoon | Signature Cajun spice punch |
| Paprika | 1 teaspoon | Earthy color and mild sweetness |
| Black pepper | ½ teaspoon | Adds mild heat and aroma |
| Cayenne pepper | ¼ teaspoon | Provides spicy kick |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon | Enhances all flavors |
| Worcestershire sauce | 1 teaspoon | Gives umami and complexity |
| Hot sauce | 1 teaspoon (optional) | Adds heat and authentic tang |
Remember: Simmer the sauce until it thickens slightly creating a luscious coating for the shrimp.
By following these prep steps precisely, we ensure each bite of Mr B’s BBQ Shrimp explodes with the rich buttery garlic and bold Cajun spice flavors that this classic is famous for.
Cooking Instructions
Let’s dive into cooking Mr B’s BBQ Shrimp to bring out its signature rich garlic butter flavor and bold Cajun spices. Follow each step closely to ensure the shrimp is perfectly cooked and infused with the luscious sauce.
Cooking the Shrimp
- Preheat a large skillet or cast iron pan over medium-high heat for even cooking.
- Add 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter to the pan. Let the butter melt completely until it foams gently.
- Add the cleaned and deveined large shrimp with shells on, spreading them evenly in the skillet. Cooking shrimp with shells on helps lock in moisture and amplifies the flavor.
- Season the shrimp immediately with 1½ teaspoons paprika, 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning, ½ teaspoon black pepper, ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper, and salt to taste.
- Sear the shrimp for 2 to 3 minutes on one side without moving them to develop a slight crust.
- Flip the shrimp using tongs and cook for an additional 2 minutes on the other side until they turn bright pink and opaque but remain tender.
Simmering in the Sauce
- Lower the heat to medium and pour in ¼ cup dry white wine, 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce, and 1 teaspoon hot sauce.
- Add the juice of half a fresh lemon, squeezing it directly into the pan for that zesty brightness.
- Stir gently to combine the liquids with the garlic butter and spices, scraping the browned bits off the skillet bottom to deepen the sauce flavor.
- Simmer the shrimp in this sauce for another 3 to 4 minutes, allowing the shrimp to absorb the rich, savory sauce.
- Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning if needed — add more cayenne for heat or lemon juice for acidity.
- Serve immediately, garnishing with freshly chopped parsley and a wedge of lemon. Pair with crusty French bread to soak up every drop of the irresistible sauce.
| Step | Temperature | Time | Key Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Preheat skillet | Medium-high (375°F) | 2 minutes | Use cast iron for best results |
| Sear shrimp side one | Medium-high | 2-3 minutes | Do not move shrimp during this time |
| Sear shrimp side two | Medium-high | 2 minutes | Shrimp should turn pink |
| Simmer with sauce | Medium | 3-4 minutes | Stir gently, let flavors meld |
Our step-by-step approach ensures Mr B’S BBQ Shrimp bursts with bold Cajun flavor under a rich garlic butter sauce. This method delivers shrimp that is tender, juicy, and gloriously coated in sauce — perfect for an authentic New Orleans experience.
Serving Suggestions
To fully enjoy Mr B’s BBQ Shrimp, we recommend pairing it with sides and accompaniments that complement its bold garlic butter sauce and robust Cajun spices. Here are our top serving suggestions to elevate the experience:
- Crusty French Bread or Baguette
Serve warm, crusty bread alongside the shrimp to soak up the rich, buttery sauce. This simple addition transforms each bite into a savory delight bursting with flavor.
- Steamed White Rice or Dirty Rice
A fluffy bed of steamed white rice acts as a neutral base, balancing the intense spices. For a more traditional Southern touch, serve the shrimp over flavorful dirty rice made with bell peppers, onions, and Cajun seasoning.
- Grilled or Roasted Vegetables
We suggest seasonal veggies like asparagus, zucchini, or bell peppers. Grilling or roasting adds a smoky dimension that pairs well with the shrimp’s garlic and spice notes.
- Fresh Lemon Wedges
Offering lemon wedges at the table lets guests customize the brightness of their dish. A squeeze of lemon enhances the smoky and buttery elements with a fresh citrus burst.
- Chopped Fresh Parsley
A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley adds a pop of color and subtle herbaceous freshness that cuts through the richness of the sauce.
| Serving Component | Reason for Pairing | Preparation Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Crusty French Bread | Soaks up garlic butter sauce | Warm in oven before serving |
| Steamed White Rice | Neutral base to balance spices | Fluff with fork, keep warm |
| Dirty Rice | Adds a Cajun-spiced, hearty side | Prepare with bell peppers, onions, and Cajun spice |
| Grilled Vegetables | Provides smoky, crunchy contrast | Lightly season, grill until tender |
| Lemon Wedges | Brightens flavors with citrus acidity | Serve chilled for freshness |
| Fresh Parsley | Adds color and fresh herbal note | Chop finely, sprinkle just before serving |
When plating, arrange Mr B’s BBQ Shrimp over the rice or beside grilled vegetables. Drizzle extra garlic butter sauce generously on top or serve it on the side in a small bowl for dipping. This presentation highlights the dish’s rich texture and vibrant spices.
Invite guests to combine these elements on their plates for a custom experience. The combination of buttery shrimp, tangy lemon, aromatic herbs, and complementary sides makes each bite memorable and true to the authentic New Orleans flavor.
Make-Ahead Tips
Preparing Mr B’s BBQ Shrimp in advance ensures a stress-free cooking experience and allows the deep, bold flavors to develop fully. Here are our expert tips to make-ahead the components without compromising the iconic buttery garlic and Cajun spice punch:
Marinate the Shrimp Early
We recommend marinating the shrimp for at least 30 minutes to 1 hour before cooking. This allows the shrimp to absorb the Cajun seasonings thoroughly. Use the following marinade ingredients from the recipe:
- Garlic
- Paprika
- Cajun seasoning
- Black pepper
- Cayenne pepper
- Salt
- Lemon juice
- Worcestershire sauce
Cover the shrimp tightly and refrigerate during this time. Avoid marinating longer than 2 hours as the acid in the lemon juice may begin to break down the texture.
Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce Ahead
The rich garlic butter sauce is the heart of the dish. We suggest preparing the sauce base a few hours before serving or even the night prior to:
- Melt the unsalted butter with olive oil
- Sauté garlic gently until fragrant
- Add dry white wine, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, and lemon juice
- Season with Cajun spices
Allow the sauce to cool, then cover and refrigerate until ready to use. Reheat gently on low heat before adding the shrimp to avoid burning the butter.
Cooking and Serving Timing
Cook the shrimp just before serving to maintain tenderness and juiciness. Since our sauce and shrimp are prepared, cooking will take less than 10 minutes:
| Task | Estimated Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Marinate shrimp | 30 min to 1 hour | Up to 2 hours max |
| Prepare garlic butter sauce | 10-15 minutes | Can be done ahead |
| Reheat sauce | 5 minutes | Use low heat |
| Cook shrimp in sauce | 5-7 minutes | Sear and simmer for full flavor |
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you have leftover Mr B’s BBQ Shrimp, store shrimp and sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Reheat the sauce slowly on the stove and toss the shrimp in just to warm through. This prevents overcooking and maintains vibrant Cajun flavor.
“Make-ahead prep lets us enjoy the full experience of Mr B’s BBQ Shrimp without the last-minute rush, ensuring every bite is bursting with that signature garlic butter richness and Cajun spice boldness.”
Final Pro Touch
For an added flourish on make-ahead day, chop fresh parsley and slice lemon wedges so they are ready for garnishing. Keep chilled separately for a fresh burst right before serving.
By utilizing these make-ahead strategies we secure maximum flavor development, seamless execution, and an authentic taste of New Orleans in every mouthwatering bite.
Conclusion
Mr B’s BBQ Shrimp is a fantastic way to bring bold Cajun flavors and rich garlic butter into your kitchen with ease. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight meal or impressing guests, this recipe delivers on taste and simplicity.
With the right ingredients, tools, and a few helpful tips, you can enjoy a dish that’s both authentic and packed with Southern charm. It’s a flavorful experience that seafood lovers won’t want to miss. Give it a try and savor every buttery, spicy bite.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Mr B’s BBQ Shrimp?
Mr B’s BBQ Shrimp is a classic New Orleans dish featuring large shrimp cooked in a rich garlic butter sauce with Cajun spices and a hint of lemon. It’s known for its bold flavors and simple preparation.
What ingredients are essential for authentic Mr B’s BBQ Shrimp?
Key ingredients include large fresh shrimp with shells on, garlic, paprika, Cajun seasoning, black pepper, cayenne pepper, unsalted butter, olive oil, lemon juice, dry white wine, Worcestershire sauce, and hot sauce.
What equipment do I need to make this dish?
You will need a large skillet or cast iron pan, tongs, measuring spoons and cups, a chef’s knife, cutting board, and optionally a serving dish and citrus juicer.
How long does it take to cook Mr B’s BBQ Shrimp?
Cooking the shrimp typically takes around 10 to 15 minutes, including searing and simmering in the garlic butter sauce for perfect flavor.
Can I prepare Mr B’s BBQ Shrimp in advance?
Yes, you can marinate shrimp for 30 minutes to 1 hour and prepare the sauce ahead of time. Cook shrimp just before serving for the best texture and flavor.
What are good side dishes to serve with BBQ Shrimp?
Popular sides include warm crusty French bread, steamed white rice, dirty rice, grilled or roasted vegetables, fresh lemon wedges, and chopped parsley to complement the rich sauce.
How should leftovers be stored and reheated?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on low heat to preserve the buttery sauce and shrimp tenderness.
Is this recipe suitable for beginners?
Yes, the recipe’s straightforward steps and simple ingredients make it suitable for cooks of all skill levels wanting to enjoy authentic Cajun flavors.